Western Australian Premier Roger Cook has staunchly defended the scientific basis for the state's controversial demersal fish ban, stating his government has "nothing to hide," following a large-scale protest convoy over the weekend.
Premier Stands Firm on Science Behind Sweeping Ban
Mr Cook, speaking on Monday the 19th of January 2026, backed the data that led to the decision to institute a ban on catching demersal fish from Augusta to Kalbarri. The measure is designed to protect threatened species.
"You can’t out of political convenience decide that you’re going to trust this science, but not that science, the science is the science," the Premier asserted. He extended an invitation to sceptics, saying, "If people want to sit down with our experts and go through that... we’re very happy for that, because we’ve got nothing to hide."
Mr Cook framed the decision as one for future generations, expressing fear that without action, "my kids’ kids will not be able to fish for these demersal fish."
Major Protest Convoy Rolls into Perth CBD
The Premier's comments come a day after a significant demonstration against the ban. On Sunday, a convoy of approximately 200 cars towing fishing boats travelled from Fremantle to the Perth CBD.
Protesters called for an immediate pause on the ban, which took effect on January 1, and a thorough review of the government's scientific data. The protest-promoted petition for a parliamentary inquiry into WA's fisheries management has already attracted more than 26,000 signatures.
Opposition leaders attended the rally, with Liberal leader Basil Zempilas stating, "A parliamentary inquiry will give us the best opportunity to assess all of the data... and if this decision stands up and stacks up." Nationals leader Shane Love also backed the call for an inquiry.
Industry Seeks Constructive Path Forward
The government has faced criticism for a perceived lack of consultation, announcing the ban just weeks before its implementation. However, Mr Cook reiterated that urgent action was necessary to safeguard fish stocks for the future.
"I want those kids to be able to enjoy the fishing that their parents have, I want their kids’ kids to have that opportunity as well," he said, referencing young family members present at the protest. "The only way we can do that is by acting today."
Despite this, the response is unlikely to immediately calm the anger among commercial and recreational fishers. Mr Cook will have a direct opportunity to address industry concerns on Thursday, when he meets with members of the WA Fishing Industry Council (WAFIC).
WAFIC chief executive Melissa Haslam said the meeting was a chance for constructive work with the government to find a balanced approach. This follows a separate "constructive" meeting between WAFIC and Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis the previous week.
